122 reviews for:

How to Dance

Jason B. Dutton

3.56 AVERAGE

medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
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lookatjimmy's review

DID NOT FINISH: 4%

one chapter in and I hate both the MCs so it's gonna be a no from me LMAO

How to Dance is a captivating audiobook that defies expectations with its heartfelt narrative and authentic characters. Nick, a protagonist with cerebral palsy, shines as a beacon of courage and resilience, showcasing the beauty of embracing life's challenges. His relationship with Hayley is a delightful blend of tension and tenderness, offering a refreshing take on love and acceptance. The audiobook's seamless narration enhances the experience, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking a touching story filled with warmth and inspiration. Don't miss the release on February 6th – this is a tale that will leave a lasting impression.

A heartfelt portrayal of disability representation, "How to Dance" celebrates the strength found in embracing one's true self. Nick's unwavering spirit and determination to live life to the fullest resonate deeply, offering a powerful reminder of the beauty found in diversity. With its captivating narrative and endearing characters, this audiobook is a delightful escape into a world filled with love, courage, and the joy of embracing life's melody.

Special thanks to Dreamscape Media, Jason B. Dutton, and NetGalley for the opportunity to experience this enchanting tale in advance.
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
funny lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

I haven’t read many romance books written by men but really loved this one! Loved the main character with CP, the FMC was meh ok. Was it cheating? Was it not? It’s unclear. I can see how the author may have imbued their own experiences and feelings into this book, and it feels so genuine. His insecurities and annoyances about able bodied “well meaning” people and about having adaptive equipment make you feel the feelings and get drawn into the story. Will be interested to see what a second novel might look like from this author!

Nick Freeman is the star of Friday night karaoke at a local bar, enjoying the chance for his singing to distract from his cerebral palsy. One night, he can’t help but watch professional dancer Hayley Burke light up the dance floor with her boyfriend. When Hayley sees Nick’s expression, she challenges him to try some dance moves with her before learning that he can only walk with the help of a metal walker. Despite their initial meeting, the two become friends, while Nick silently wishes for more.

This was an enjoyable Own Voices debut novel with an engaging cast of side characters to round out the main story line. I love that Nick was a math teacher, even though we didn’t get to see much of that in the story. I personally did not care for the narrator of the audiobook, so I would suggest grabbing a physical or ebook version of this story.

Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an audio ARC of this book.
funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

It was enjoyable, towards the end I was really feeling the emotions and I teared up a few times, but at the same time I found myself skipping through the pages just so I could get to the end. I would definitely recommend it, it wasn't what I expected but it made me enjoy it even more. I'm glad Nick and Hayley got their happily ever after. Mel is my favorite fictional person, she actually made me cry with her words, she cares so damn much man and has gone with equally as much. Anyways, it was a good read, I can't really explain exactly why I (personally) can't rate it any higher but it's a gut feeling that this story is a solid 3 ⭐'s.

How to Dance features a hero that has cerebral palsy, and that is something I wanted to read about so much. After reading, I learned that the author himself incorporated his real-life experience into Nick, and that made it even more meaningful.

Hayley and Nick have the opposite of a meet-cute, but they both rebound and form a true friendship. Although, it’s clear to the reader that both start to have deeper feelings. Nick was an interesting character; essentially using his disability as a wall to keep anyone out of his heart. Like he puts on a show to be the “fun guy,” yet he doesn’t form meaningful relationships…until Hayley.

I don’t like that their relationship forms emotionally while she is still dating Kevin. While there is no physical cheating, it feels too much like a slippery slope to an emotional affair. It’s the one thing that really detracted from my enjoyment of How to Dance, as I truly loved the rest of it.

A solid debut offering from a new-to-me author.

Thank you to Alcove Press for the review copy.